Jazz Legends Series at PizzaExpress

Jerry Bergonzi with The Bruce Barth Trio

Master saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi gained worldwide recognition while playing with two generations of Brubeck bands. He is renowned for his innovation, mastery and integrity, as a performer, composer, author and educator. In an endless series of rave reviews he is credited for his relentless drive, inner fire, total command, awesome technique, elastic lyricism, rich resonance and as a musical visionary. His music has been applauded throughout the world in all the major festivals, concert halls and venues.

Among the innumerable artists that Bergonzi has performed and recorded with are; Bill Evans, Paul Desmond, Dave Holland, Gerry Mulligan, Jack DeJonette, John Abercrombie, Roy Haynes, Pat Martino and many more.

Michael Brecker was asked by an interviewer how it felt, at the peak of his powers and with the world at his feet, to be the king of the tenor saxophone, Brecker replied: "I don’t know, you’d better ask Jerry Bergonzi."

Bruce Barth, a surprising and soulful musician, is “one of the best pianists in town, period,” says the Village Voice and the Newark Star-Ledger adds,“At the piano, no one sounds quite like Barth. His solos are characterized by robust swing, by his ability to tell a story, and by his rich, beguiling sound.” Bruce has built a sterling reputation over the past 25 years working alongside a long list of jazz greats including Terrence Blanchard, Nat Adderley and Stanley Turrentine.